To the Blackhawk Brigade Family, It is my honor to have this opportunity to formerly introduce myself to you as the new director of the award winning La Quinta High School Blackhawk Brigade! I must recognize the tremendous accomplishments that the program has enjoyed under its former director, Mr. Darren Loney. It is evident that Mr. Loney instilled a great sense of pride and proficiency in its membership during his tenure. Mr. Loney's vision for the program was, "striving for the next level of excellence." This philosophy is all-inclusive, from music fundamentals, self discipline, accountability, leadership, respect, pride, and a sense of "esprit de corps" that lives strongly within each of you. These qualities of excellence are not only applicable to a music program, but are necessary skills for the young men and women of the Blackhawk Brigade to master. These are the skills that our students must be equipped with so that they may become highly successful contributors of society in the very near future. It is my belief that this pursuit of excellence is what makes music programs special. It is evident to me, after spending time with these students, and parents, that this sense of excellence is alive and well in the Blackhawk Brigade. I believe that true success lies in the excellence of its membership, more so than the importance we may put on what judges happen to think of us on any given day. While I have the utmost respect and admiration for Mr. Loney, and his efforts to make this program great, please be aware that some aspects of the program will be different in the future. It is clear that the general direction of the program is successful, and it is for that reason that I have no desire to make drastic changes in what we do. I simply ask for your patience, trust, and understanding as we enter into a new adventure together. To continue my transition into the program, I am asking each of you to participate in an online survey so that I can get a sense of what you feel the strengths of the program are. Consequently, there will be inevitable areas of improvement as well. This is normal! I would like each returning member to complete the student survey, and each parent to complete a parent survey. Please answer honestly, the results are 100% anonymous. Students, please answer each question in the student survey. Although some questions may not apply to you, please use the "N/A" option for these questions. I will include the links to each survey on the Blackhawk Brigade Facebook page, as well as through a charms email blast. Thank you in advance for taking a few minutes to complete this survey. I have great aspirations and vision for this program in the years ahead. It is my priority and mission to ensure that each student in the La Quinta High School Blackhawk Brigade enjoys a positive experience, and leaves the program with lasting memories and friendships. It is my honor and privilege to lead this outstanding group of students and parents into the upcoming school year! Now - let's do this... Mr. Michael Fleischmann Band Director La Quinta High School

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